AFL-CIO Blog

  • Ohio Labor Coalition Swings Speaker Election, Changes Dynamic in Legislature
    Ohio Labor Coalition Swings Speaker Election, Changes Dynamic in Legislature Jessie Balmert, Cincinnati Enquirer Despite the number of victories in congressional and gubernatorial races across the country in 2018, many of the top labor-endorsed candidates in Ohio lost their elections. The losses were a disappointment to Ohio AFL-CIO President Tim Burga, but he recognized the need to get to work to make the best of the situation. "It was a tough loss in the election, we had higher hopes," Burga said. "We didn’t have any time to waste lamenting the loss, we had to get to work preparing for a new incoming governor and a new legislature." And prepare they did. Drawing on experience from the collective bargaining fights of 2011, the Ohio AFL-CIO recognized the threat of ongoing and renewed attacks on working people in the single party government and immediately got to work trying to supersede the threats. As the political picture came into view after the November elections, it became clear that there would be a highly contested race to become Ohio speaker of the House in a chamber overwhelmingly controlled by Republicans. One of the candidates, Rep. Larry Householder, who has established relationships with Ohio union leaders, indicated he would abandon the regular attacks on collective bargaining, wages and labor's core issues that were constantly introduced and pushed in prior GOP Ohio legislatures. The race for speaker was a very close one, with the candidates effectively dividing the GOP majority into two equal parts. Any significant defection of minority Democrats to support one or the other candidate emerged as a potential deciding factor in the outcome of the most important vote of the legislature. The Ohio AFL-CIO launched a union coalition and advocated for the ousting of the current speaker to be replaced by Householder, given his commitments to stand with trade unionists and working people. The intense and intricate effort brought forth the desired result. In the end, Householder won the race for speaker with 52 votes—26 from Republicans and 26 from Democrats.     This win was multifaceted. The advocacy effort caused an open dialogue between Householder and House Democrats as they discussed offering their support. House Democrats were able to secure significant procedural and structural advancements from now-Speaker Householder that create a unique opportunity for the minority party to participate in major policy decisions. With these agreements in place, many expect the chamber to also conduct itself in a more deliberative and transparent manner than has been the case in recent years. "The voice of working people is a powerful thing and it knows no partisan lines," Burga said. "It is great when we have members of both parties recognize that, and come together to pave a way forward," he said. Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 01/10/2019 - 14:16 — Jan 10
  • Our Paycheck Is Not a Bargaining Chip
    Our Paycheck Is Not a Bargaining Chip AFL-CIO It’s day 20 of the government shutdown, and the AFL-CIO has called upon the entire labor movement to fight for our affected brothers and sisters.  Watch AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka on "Morning Joe" talking about the shutdown: On Tuesday, the AFL-CIO asked the leadership of the general board and state federations and central labor councils to marshal our resources and use our collective power to end the shutdown. As Trumka said, this shutdown is a direct attack on our unions. “These are the moments this federation was created for. When you mess with one of us, you have to deal with all of us: 12.5 million working people and 55 unions strong.” Together, we’re working at every level to make our voices heard, including:
    • Rallying today at the AFL-CIO headquarters.
    • Blitzing targeted senators with calls from both members and leaders.
    • Bringing a delegation of workers to meet with senators to demand an end to the shutdown.
    • Publicly shaming a senator if they refuse to meet with workers.
    • Activating our network of labor liaisons and community partners like the United Way to respond to requests from impacted workers.
    Our simple ask to our senators: Pass the House bills and open the government. AFGE National President J. David Cox Sr. was interviewed on the latest edition of the “State of the Unions” podcast about the effects of the government shutdown and reminded us that “the average take home pay of our members is around $500 a week....They live paycheck to paycheck. And missing one paycheck—and particularly a paycheck that could have overtime on it—creates devastating effects.” “We’re being held hostage for political purposes and that just needs to stop,” he declared. Check out the full episode here. Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 01/10/2019 - 10:18 Tags: Government Shutdown     — Jan 10
  • End the Shutdown: What Working People Are Doing This Week
    End the Shutdown: What Working People Are Doing This Week AFL-CIO Welcome to our regular feature, a look at what the various AFL-CIO unions and other working family organizations are doing across the country and beyond. The labor movement is big and active—here's a look at the broad range of activities we're engaged in this week. A. Philip Randolph Institute: 
    Want to give a big shout out to our brother E.J. Jenkins for putting events on like this in several communities over the past few years thru his outreach program. Another reason why we need to support him in with the #BlackLaborWeek2019. We all... https://t.co/PSqf2DuwT9 — APRI National (DC) (@APRI_National) January 7, 2019
    Actors' Equity: 
    It's been 11 years – we are over due for a new Lab Agreement, and @BroadwayLeague needs to support paying Equity Members for their creative contributions. Sign your #NotALabRat commitment card online! Visit https://t.co/tYMoZ94Ns4 to add your voice. pic.twitter.com/RPaxKGpjhU — Actors' Equity (@ActorsEquity) January 6, 2019
    AFGE: 
    Even some members of @HouseGOP are saying it's time to #EndTheShutdown and get federal workers back on the job, with pay! Let's reopen the government TODAY! https://t.co/5SlJmGsyu9 — AFGE (@AFGENational) January 7, 2019
    AFSCME: 
    ICYMI: 800,000 federal workers are definitely #NotOnStrike. #1u https://t.co/x572XnMPGG — AFSCME (@AFSCME) January 6, 2019
    AFT: 
    “The standoff between L.A. Unified and United Teachers Los Angeles is a struggle over the future of public education.” - @UTLAnow Pres @CaputoPearl #StrikeReady #UTLAStrong https://t.co/Xp2pzoEm50 — AFT (@AFTunion) January 7, 2019
    Air Line Pilots Association: 
    ICYMI: Check out ALPA’s favorite (and breathtaking!) office views of 2018: https://t.co/D3uZRoNSWf pic.twitter.com/i09bLM3sL7 — ALPA (@WeAreALPA) January 7, 2019
    Alliance for Retired Americans: 
    Thanks to NYSARA Exec Director Stephen Madarasz for protesting the government #shutdown at a rally outside @RepStefanik 's Glen Falls office. It's time for federal workers to return to their jobs with the pay they deserve! #1u @AFGENational pic.twitter.com/8TJpHdeOp2 — Alliance Retirees (@ActiveRetirees) January 7, 2019
    American Federation of Musicians:
    In 1960 when she raised her baton at the Majestic Theater to start #TheMusicMan, Liza Redfield became the first woman to conduct a Broadway orchestra. She was a #UnionMusician for over 70 yrs. Rest In Power Liza!https://t.co/AL8TmTLlOh — Amer. Fed. Musicians (@The_AFM) January 3, 2019
    American Postal Workers Union:
    Albany Local staying #APWUnited on Union Gear Day! If you celebrated yesterday send us your pictures to [email protected] pic.twitter.com/PPNAkZpFN5 — APWU National (@APWUnational) January 4, 2019
    Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance: 
    The Trump administration has launched its most aggressive legal attempt yet to end all immigration to the United States -- an asylum ban. Seeking asylum is a human right. #AsylumIsLegal Submit a public comment to stop this ban! https://t.co/iFqjDoR7ch pic.twitter.com/myvtopgPST — APALA (@APALAnational) January 2, 2019
    Boilermakers: 
    Boilermaker bonds are strong, but for a L-465 member, brotherhood proved lifesaving. Find out how an L-169 apprentice faced danger to save his #Boilermaker brother. https://t.co/YCJfgbDkPV pic.twitter.com/q3tCuIHDNe — Boilermakers Union (@boilermakernews) January 4, 2019
    Bricklayers:
    The House of Representatives passed reasonable, commonsense legislation to re-open & fund the government. But Mitch McConnell & #Senate GOPs refuse to bring it up for a vote. Urge your Senator to re-open the Government today: https://t.co/DEMl335nBX #StopTheShutdown pic.twitter.com/PUVvOFC0GW — Bricklayers Union (@IUBAC) January 7, 2019
    Coalition of Black Trade Unionists: 
    So proud. So fierce. So liberating. https://t.co/UjMINvTm56 — CBTU (@CBTU72) January 5, 2019
    Coalition of Labor Union Women: 
    We’re so excited to be an official partner of the 2019 @womensmarch in Washington, DC, on January 19. The #WomensWave is coming. Join us: https://t.co/Qkqq5PJpNo #1u pic.twitter.com/3Xf6bYl7H3 — CLUW National (@CLUWNational) January 3, 2019
    Communications Workers of America:
    Corporate CEOs & wealthy donors have rigged our political system & working families are ready to take it back! The #ForThePeople Act makes voting easier and gets big money out of politics. CWA supports bold action to reclaim democracy for working families! https://t.co/kihlRjhcbw — CWA (@CWAUnion) January 7, 2019
    Department for Professional Employees, AFL-CIO: 
    "We are collaborators, and we need to be acknowledged for what we’re doing. We’re putting in more skin than we once did, and after recoupment we think it’s fair that we should be able to share in the success of the show.” #1u #NotALabRat https://t.co/zkYz1FfSuJ — Department for Professional Employees (@DPEaflcio) January 7, 2019
    Electrical Workers: 
    What the federal #Shutdown means to #IBEW members and their families https://t.co/L1exzUdYRx — IBEW (@IBEW) January 7, 2019
    Farm Labor Organizing Committee: 
    At 71, @baldemarfloc is still organizing. Here he is with the farm workers and...in front of a Confederate Flag. A sign that is not hospitable to people of color. See his comment in the picture below. As we've said, he is 71 and us younger folk struggle to keep up with him! pic.twitter.com/XydR3ZRwYT — Farm Labor Organizing Committee (@SupportFLOC) January 4, 2019
    Fire Fighters: 
    The IAFF’s position on proposed degree requirements for accredited paramedic programs is that the certification/licensure process SHOULD continue to be a viable option through which a prehospital care provider becomes credentialed. https://t.co/TRRJ6oWpRB — IAFF (@IAFFNewsDesk) January 3, 2019
    Heat and Frost Insulators: 
    Learn more about the Insulators Union and our involvement across the country to recruit the next generation of Mechanical Insulators during the the 2018 @USDOL National Apprenticeship Week. https://t.co/z4MVMJHP5n — Insulators Union (@InsulatorsUnion) January 7, 2019
    International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers: 
    #Disgusting that these hard working Americans are being forced to do their job without pay! We stand with @AFGENational and all #FederalWorkers affected by the #TrumpShutdown ! https://t.co/LW64QjvKYk — IFPTE (@IFPTE) January 5, 2019
    Ironworkers: 
    The Iron Workers with its contractor-ironworker partnership IMPACT, has been busy developing new programs for construction personnel to help them succeed. #skillsshortage #skilledlaborshortage https://t.co/w8Z5yVeOF0 — Ironworkers. (@TheIronworkers) January 3, 2019
    Jobs With Justice: 
    Well, this isn't tone deaf: while the people who clean our government buildings and service our national parks are furloughed, high ranking Trump administration officials--including Vice President Pence--nearly received a significant raise. https://t.co/C1k05WrhhO — Jobs With Justice (@jwjnational) January 7, 2019
    Labor Council for Latin American Advancement: 
    The partial government shutdown has now entered its third week, and as it drags on thousands of working people are being denied denied a paycheck. America's working families are counting on our Congressional leaders to bring this situation to an end. — LCLAA (@LCLAA) January 7, 2019
    Laborers:
    #MemberMonday - Got a story? Got pictures? Working on a new project? Send to [email protected] pic.twitter.com/D2j4Ho5VJM — LIUNA (@LIUNA) January 7, 2019
    Machinists:
    Tell your U.S. Senators: The work our members do is vital to our country. We need them to get back to work and be paid for the work they do. #StopTheShutdown https://t.co/9Eu8P07Ffc — Machinists Union (@MachinistsUnion) January 7, 2019
    Metal Trades Department, AFL-CIO: 
    A furloughed federal employee's guide to filing for unemployment during the shutdown https://t.co/0iaswWxZLm — Metal Trades Dept. (@metaltradesafl) January 6, 2019
    National Air Traffic Controllers Association:
    The government shutdown is directly affecting air traffic controllers. NATCA member Matt Craviotto from Wilmington, N.C. (ILM), whose home was flooded during Hurricane Florence in September, shared how the #shutdown is impacting him. https://t.co/Bzv4AfTlDS — NATCA (@NATCA) January 3, 2019
    National Association of Letter Carriers:
    NALCREST -- A #retirement #community for letter carriers that is union-made! The Nalcrest community is for retired letter carriers who are members dreaming to retire in a nice & sunny location. For more information & how to apply https://t.co/V98r12UfAg #postalproud #Florida pic.twitter.com/Fngi9y6AHV — Letter Carriers (@NALC_National) January 6, 2019
    National Domestic Workers Alliance: 
    Today, there are millions of domestic workers like Cleo in @ROMACuaron, caring for homes and families around the world. Here’s what they had to say about the movie: https://t.co/ohBSrc0bKt — Domestic Workers (@domesticworkers) January 6, 2019
    National Federation of Federal Employees-IAM:
    NFFE-IAM member Erin Kidwell of NFFE Local 1968 tells how many federal employees are struggling by being furloughed during the holidays. "We do live paycheck by paycheck," said Kidwell. https://t.co/uYYvbB32tB — NFFE (@NFFE_Union) January 2, 2019
    National Nurses United: 
    #SafeStaffing can be a life-or-death issue. Studies show that #nurses from units with low staffing were twice as likely as nurses on well-staffed units to report risk factors for needle-stick injuries and near misses. Support nurse-to-patient ratios: https://t.co/2COmQyKfDf pic.twitter.com/RMg2aKiah7 — NationalNursesUnited (@NationalNurses) January 6, 2019
    National Taxi Workers Alliance: 
    NYC Taxi & Limousine Commissioner Meera Joshi is stepping down. Read our statement: "The timing of commissioner Joshi's resignation is concerning because the crisis for New York City drivers is far from over and the TLC's work to fix it is just beginning." pic.twitter.com/3c54M8g3EB — NY Taxi Workers (@NYTWA) January 5, 2019
    The NewsGuild-CWA:
    .@news_guild members are part of an organizing movement. We're ready to spread the news at our sector conference in Orlando!https://t.co/Ke8jif3vIo#TNGmeets#TNGorganizes#Right2Report#1u pic.twitter.com/4C5th91A6u — NewsGuild (@news_guild) January 3, 2019
    NFL Players Association:
    Will you be in town for #ATLSB53? We're partnering with orgs all over Atlanta to have a candid conversation around #mentalhealth. If you have questions or are interested in attending, send an 📧 to [email protected] pic.twitter.com/etc9jKnvu4 — NFLPA (@NFLPA) January 7, 2019
    North America's Building Trades Unions, AFL-CIO: 
    With the #116thCongress in office, Hill leadership may be ready to start the discussion on #InfrastructureInvestment. “We’re generally positive that those in leadership positions have a commitment to infrastructure & ensuring that something gets done”https://t.co/pV3JrIK8eS — The Building Trades (@NABTU) January 7, 2019
    Office and Professional Employees: 
    Looking for #scholarship $$$? The deadline for the 2019 Union Plus Scholarship is Jan 31 - tell your #union friends! https://t.co/3ueHYnNYYT — OPEIU (@opeiu) January 5, 2019
    Painters and Allied Trades:
    Congrats @JanetMillsforME, thank you @GoIUPAT member @SenTroyJackson and @mainesenatedems @AFLCIO @NABTU @unitehere https://t.co/GuDTq3j9fx — GoIUPAT✊🏽 (@GoIUPAT) January 6, 2019
    Plasterers and Cement Masons: 
    How does the government shutdown effect federal infrastructure projects? “If the shutdown gets resolved without too much delay, the impact will be minimal. However, the longer it drags on, states may hold back on bids because of the uncertainty." https://t.co/Lkr1dekbIu — OPCMIA International (@opcmiaintl) January 6, 2019
    Printing, Publishing and Media Workers-CWA: 
    Three important Supreme Court Decisions for Employers/ Labor from 2018 https://t.co/Hj3g3Mgere https://t.co/Hj3g3Mgere — CWA Printing Sector (@CWAPrintingSect) January 2, 2019
    Professional Aviation Safety Specialists: 
    PASS-represented employees at the FAA are either furloughed or working without pay, not knowing when they'll receive their next paycheck. Mortgages, rents, utilities, bills, tuitions, medical expenses, food, gas all cost $$$. #WeWantToWork #EndTheShutdown https://t.co/ofmpXssnCO — PASS (@PASSNational) January 4, 2019
    Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union/UFCW:
    Today’s #AMZHQ2Brief is shedding light on how @Amazon has devastated #Seattle – and how we can prevent the same fate in New York with the #HQ2Scam @NYCComptroller pic.twitter.com/Z6aBIDoesU — RWDSU (@RWDSU) January 7, 2019
    SAG-AFTRA: 
    SAG-AFTRA and New York Public Radio Reach Voluntary Recognition Agreement Covering New Employees https://t.co/pMhEQzFud5 pic.twitter.com/rckUNiOHAu — SAG-AFTRA (@sagaftra) January 7, 2019
    Seafarers: 
    Way to step up, everyone. NY Waterway crews again demonstrate they're not just workers but part of the community. https://t.co/WCmZE6bWTV — Seafarers Union (@SeafarersUnion) January 1, 2019
    Solidarity Center: 
    When it comes to #humantrafficking, "there appears to be hardly any risk for traffickers to face justice"-- @UN report @WomenMigration @FreetheSlaves https://t.co/1gDYuKlF5f — Solidarity Center (@SolidarityCntr) January 7, 2019
    Theatrical Stage Employees:
    Planning to watch the #GoldenGlobes tonight? Take a moment to thank the people behind the scenes who make the whole show possible. pic.twitter.com/JhO9r0cNA1 — IATSE (@IATSE) January 7, 2019
    Transport Workers: 
    The TWU celebrates the life of @SouthwestAir co-founder and chair emeritus Herb Kelleher. He was a good friend to labor and an honorary member of @TWULocal556 #HonoringHerb https://t.co/4y1d3U9Ia5 — TWU (@transportworker) January 4, 2019
    Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO:
    We see you @RepBrianFitz and everything you are doing for working people. Thanks for making America's federal workforce a priority. #StopTheShutdown https://t.co/zRevgLGEs2 — Transp. Trades Dept. (@TTDAFLCIO) January 7, 2019
    UAW:
    "General Motors enters 2019 as the top carmaker in Mexico. The distinction comes as GM plans to shutter four U.S. manufacturing facilities this year." https://t.co/wOK1I0hJIm — UAW (@UAW) January 3, 2019
    Union Label and Service Trades Department, AFL-CIO: 
    'I'm Pretty Much Broke Right Now': TSA Workers On Edge As Government Shutdown Grinds On https://t.co/3Hb7mVVWRg — Union Label Dept. (@ULSTD_AFLCIO) January 7, 2019
    UNITE HERE: 
    Because of #TrumpShutdown, 500 federal cafeteria workers are out on furlough. Without intervention, they won’t get backpay & could lose their healthcare. Time to #StopTheShutdown & pay workers what they deserve! https://t.co/4dIixrCRvu pic.twitter.com/aJkYlVAwO8 — UNITE HERE (@unitehere) January 7, 2019
    United Food and Commercial Workers: 
    Job well done! MT @ufcwlocal152: On Friday, 1/04, UFCW Local 152 members of CRS Facility Services at the #PhiladelphiaMillsMall in Philadelphia, PA unanimously ratified a new #union contract! Congratulations to our members and the Negotiating Committee. https://t.co/6AZuBqEeNS — UFCW (@UFCW) January 7, 2019
    United Steelworkers: 
    . @SenRodrigues @SenRichardRoss @SenatorMikeRush Thank you for fighting for our brothers & sisters @USW04 @BostonGas12003 to #EndTheLockout by @NationalGridUS @MarcyReedNG! #Solidarity pic.twitter.com/QnQ2yjqWFn — United Steelworkers (@steelworkers) January 7, 2019
    Working America: 
    Although the economy saw new peaks in 2018, not all Americans report reaping the benefits. The majority of workers say they saw no salary increases last year, according to a new survey.https://t.co/V6guB9GYyJ — Working America (@WorkingAmerica) January 2, 2019
    Writers Guild of America, East:
    And the nominees are.... #WritersGuildAwards https://t.co/7D05XbMlkK — Writers Guild of America, East (@WGAEast) January 7, 2019
    Kenneth Quinnell Mon, 01/07/2019 - 13:48     — Jan 7
  • Economy Gains 312,000 Jobs in December; Unemployment Rises to 3.9%
    Economy Gains 312,000 Jobs in December; Unemployment Rises to 3.9% The U.S. economy gained 312,000 jobs in December, and the unemployment rate rose to 3.9%, according to figures released this morning by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This report shows an increase in unemployed workers and while wage gains are stronger, they are not consistent with a tight labor market. This ongoing financial and economic volatility means that the Federal Reserve needs to hold off on more rate increases. In response to the December job numbers, AFL-CIO Chief Economist William Spriggs tweeted:
    Over the year, wages rose 3.2% in December report from @BLS_gov not the most robust, but moving in the right direction #JobsReport #NumbersDay @AFLCIO — William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) January 4, 2019
     
    In a show of growing worker confidence, more unemployed workers are job leavers--839,000--than those who are entering the workforce--588,000 #JobsReport #JobsNumbers @AFLCIO — William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) January 4, 2019
     
    Black unemployment rate jumps from 6.0 to 6.6%, on the rise in unemployed workers from 1.22 million to 1.35 million #JobsReport @rolandsmartin @LVBurke @amjoyshow @AFLCIO @CBTU72 @APRI_National — William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) January 4, 2019
     
    Job gains were in all broad industry groups except information. Biggest gains in education and health, leisure and hospitality, professional and business services leading in growth #JobsReport @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/MhRDA7KKnH — William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) January 4, 2019
     
    Number of long term unemployed (those over 26 weeks) tics up slightly. But, the duration of unemployment continues to heal. @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/vZk1Q2Tlsi — William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) January 4, 2019
     
    The broadest measure of labor force slack (including part-time for economic reasons and discouraged workers) was flat at 7.6%, while the narrower measure was up to 3.9% #JobsDay #JobsReport @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/WnwK9O5MxV — William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) January 4, 2019
     
    Over the year, unemployment rates fell for all education attainment groups, but was flat for college grads. But, from November to December, unemployment rates and number unemployed were up for all education groups, except college grads. #jobsday #JobsReport @AFLCIO — William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) January 4, 2019
     
    Over the year, and in December, construction and mining show gains. In a trend dating back to 2010, construction is almost recovered to its record level of employment in 2007 @AFLCIO pic.twitter.com/68cUzgS4Sh — William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) January 4, 2019
     
    December was a movement in the right direction for education employment with state and local government, but over the year the employment is still down--NOT GOOD for America's long term growth. @AFTunion @AFSCME @AFLCIO #JobsReport #jobsday pic.twitter.com/QsB6iBSRY7 — William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) January 4, 2019
     
    Many are seeing a sunny picture, but this job report shows an increase in unemployed workers (Black workers, all workers with less than college degrees, younger workers). Wage gains stronger but not consistent with a tight labor, the @federalreserve still needs to pause @AFLCIO — William E. Spriggs (@WSpriggs) January 4, 2019
    Last month's biggest job gains were in health care (50,000), professional and business services (43,000), food services and drinking places (41,000), construction (38,000), manufacturing (32,000) and retail trade (24,000). Employment in other major industries—including mining, wholesale trade, transportation and warehousing, information, financial activities and government—showed little change over the month. Among the major worker groups, the unemployment rates rose for blacks (6.6%), adult men (3.6%) and Asians (3.3%). The jobless rate for teenagers (12.5%), Hispanics (4.4%), adult women (3.5%) and whites (3.4%) and showed little or no change in December. The number of long-term unemployed (those jobless for 27 weeks or more) declined slightly in December and accounted for 20.5% of the unemployed. Kenneth Quinnell Fri, 01/04/2019 - 10:29     — Jan 4
  • AFL-CIO's Top 10 Blog Posts of 2018
    AFL-CIO's Top 10 Blog Posts of 2018 AFL-CIO Today, we are taking a moment to reflect on a historic year for collective action by highlighting the top 10 most-read posts on the AFL-CIO blog in 2018. Throughout the year, working people across the country joined together to build a better America. These are our stories.  1. If You Live in Missouri, Vote 'No' on Proposition A: "On Aug. 7, Missouri voters will have the chance to vote against Proposition A, a divisive attack on working people funded by big corporations and their wealthy allies. The misleading measure is a direct attack on the rights of the working people of Missouri. Here are the key reasons why Proposition A is wrong for Missouri...." 2. What You Need to Know About the Vote on Missouri's Prop. A Today: "While Missourians are headed to the polls today, working people are mobilizing across the Show-Me State in a massive final push to defeat Prop. A." 3. Executive Paywatch 2018: The Gap Between CEO and Worker Compensation Continues to Grow: "CEO pay for major companies in the United States rose nearly 6% in the past year, as income inequality and the outsourcing of good-paying American jobs have increased. According to the new AFL-CIO Executive Paywatch, the average CEO of an S&P 500 Index company made $13.94 million in 2017—361 times more money than the average U.S. rank-and-file worker. The Executive Paywatch website, the most comprehensive searchable online database tracking CEO pay, showed that in 2017, the average production and nonsupervisory worker earned about $38,613 per year. When adjusted for inflation, the average wage has remained stagnant for more than 50 years." 4. Donald Trump: A Year of Making Workplaces More Dangerous: "It has been a year since Donald Trump took office. Despite promising to be a friend of workers, Trump has spent much of his first year making our workplaces less safe." 5. 7 Labor Activists You Should Know About for Asian Pacific American Heritage Month: "Each May is Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, when we celebrate the accomplishments, culture and history of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States. Today, we are going to take a deeper look at members of the Asian American and Pacific Islander community who have advanced the cause of worker justice. Here are seven labor activists who you should know about for Asian Pacific American Heritage Month...." 6. The Racist Roots of Right to Work: "Proponents of "right to work" laws often use lofty language to sell their agenda, with false appeals to freedom, among other high ideals. But right to work is about freedom only in this way: It’s about taking away the freedom of working people to join together in strong unions." 7. 15 Things You Need to Know from the 2018 Death on the Job Report: "These are challenging times for working people and their unions, and the prospects for worker safety and health protections are uncertain. What is clear, however, is that the toll of workplace injury, illness and death remains too high, and too many workers remain at serious risk. There is much more work to be done. Here are 15 key things you need to know from this year’s report, which primarily covers data from 2016." 8. The Awesomeness of 'Black Panther': Union Made: "Wow, the "Black Panther" movie was awesome, wasn't it? And while we could spend hours about how great an action movie it is or how beautiful it looks or the social implications of the themes and representation of African culture, let's take a few minutes to look behind the scenes at the work it took to bring a movie like "Black Panther" to life, work done by union members." 9. 6 Activist Women You Need to Know About for Black History Month: "As we celebrate Black History Month, we thought we'd take a look back at some of the women who have made history in the realm of fighting for the rights of working people. The battles they fought at the intersection of the rights of African Americans, women and working people should have made these women household names. Women continue to be at the forefront of battles for the rights of African Americans today, building on the work of these women and many others. Here is an introduction to a group of amazing women who did some amazing things." 10. One Job Should Be Enough: "'8,300 UNITE HERE members have the courage and the power to take on the biggest hotel company in the world and are willing to fight to transform jobs they can’t survive on into careers where they can support their families with dignity,' said UNITE HERE International President D. Taylor last week as strike headquarters opened across the country." Kenneth Quinnell Thu, 01/03/2019 - 13:49 — Jan 3